The 16 Most Popular Free VSTs of 2024 (By Top Producers)

Free VSTs can be game-changers for music producers, offering high-quality sounds, features, and functionalities without the cost.

 

However, with so many options to choose from, it can be super exhausting trying to figure out which ones are worth it. 

 

That’s why we’re breaking down the best free VSTs available right now for music producers who value professional quality sound and user-friendly interfaces. 

 

These plugins are just as solid as paid options but with a zero-dollar price tag.

 

The following 16 free VSTs include features and functions like:

 

• Versatile sound design capabilities ✓
• Powerful synthesis ✓
• Realistic virtual instrument emulation ✓
• Dynamic equalization ✓
• High-quality effects ✓
• Stereo widening ✓
• Advanced modulation ✓
• Sample-based instruments ✓
• Intuitive interfaces ✓
• Dynamic processing ✓
• Detailed sound sculpting ✓
• Professional quality samples & loops ✓
• Comprehensive mixing tools ✓
• Creative sound shaping ✓
• Much more ✓

 

After reading this article, you’ll know all about the best free VSTs available (in detail). 

 

Each one is worth the download, and I promise you won’t regret adding them to your music production toolkit. 

 

With these free VSTs, you’ll be able to produce professional-quality tracks, enhance your mixes, and explore new creative possibilities like a professional. 

 

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your existing collection, these free VSTs offer exceptional value and functionality to elevate your music production skills.

 

So, let’s dive right in to the best free VST plugins around…

 

#1. Zen Master by Unison Audio

 

 

Zen Master by Unison Audio is the number one free VST plugin available, hands down.

 

It’s designed to add a warm, vintage lo-fi vibe to your sounds in seconds with five intuitive knobs: Hypnosis, Imbalance, Electrify, Vinyl, and Ascend. 

 

• The Hypnosis Knob

 

 

The Hypnosis knob combines detuning and stereo-width effects.

 

• Imbalance

 

 

Imbalance emulates the wobble of analog tape machines. 

 

• Electrify

 

 

Electrify functions as a gentle bit crusher 一 adding subtle grit to your tracks. 

 

• Vinyl

 

 

The Vinyl knob introduces authentic vinyl noise, perfect for adding texture and depth. 

 

• Ascend

 

 

Ascend, a parallel reverb processor, maintains the balance between dry and wet signals to create a spacious sound without losing any clarity.

 

Zen Master is ideal for all music producers looking to add character and warmth to their tracks that people go crazy for.

 

It’s super popular among lo-fi enthusiasts, but its versatile sound-shaping capabilities make it a valuable tool for any genre.

 

With its simple controls and powerful effects, Zen Master can transform any sound into something unique and inspiring better than any paid version you’ll find.

 

NOTE: Top music producers like Louis Bell (who’s produced for Post Malone, Justin Bieber, and Kanye) even say it’s one of the best free VSTs in the game. 

 

So, needless to say, it’s definitely worth the free download.

 

If you’re looking to give your tracks a unique lo-fi sound and enhance your skills in the process, Zen Master is the ultimate choice.

 

Download The #1 Free VST Plugin In The Game

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Completely free; highly renowned; better than most paid plugins
• Hypnosis: Detune and stereo-width combo effect
• Imbalance: Analog tape machine wobble
• Electrify: Gentle bit crusher
• Vinyl: Adds vinyl-like noise
• Ascend: Parallel reverb processor
• One of the best free VSTs available

 

#2. Surge XT

 

 

Surge XT is a powerful hybrid synthesizer that has quickly become a favorite among electronic music producers.

 

This free VST (virtual studio technology) plugin features three oscillators per voice, each with eight oscillator algorithms, including: 

 

• Classic
• Sine
• Wavetable synthesis
• Subtractive synthesis
• FM synthesis
• Etc.

 

Surge XT’s dual-scene setup allows for intricate layering and complex sound design/synthesis techniques. 

 

It offers extensive modulation options, with 12 LFO units per voice and flexible routing options 一 making it easy to create dynamic, evolving sounds.

 

 

Surge XT is perfect for music producers who need a versatile free synth that’s capable of producing everything from lush pads to aggressive basslines. 

 

It also is packed with high-quality effects (including delay, reverb, and EQ) which allow you to polish your sounds without ever leaving the plugin. 

 

Surge XT’s comprehensive feature set makes it a must-have for anyone serious about sound design. 

 

 

BT, a trendsetter in electronic music, has praised Surge for its capabilities, saying its ability to create rich, textured sounds is unmatched; so that’s really saying something.

 

Plus its user interface ensures that even beginners can quickly get up to speed, making it one of the best free VST plugins available for newbies and pros alike.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Dual scene synthesis
• Showcases the power of free VSTs
• Huge amount of filter types included
• User interface is straightforward
• Completely free; vast collection of free presets (all the presets you’ll need)
• Eight oscillator algorithms, including an an additive synth and FM synthesizer
• 12 LFO units per voice
• Extensive modulation routing
• High-quality effects
• One of the best free VST synths/virtual synthesizers available

 

#3. Native Instruments Komplete Start

 

 

Native Instruments Komplete Start is one of the best free plugin bundles around, including a variety of mind-blowing instruments and effects.

 

It’s a great starting point for any music producer, yet powerful enough for the most advanced players as well.

 

Plus, it features the industry-standard Kontakt Player, which is a powerful sample player that can handle a diverse range of sounds. 

 

Native Instruments Komplete Start also includes several NI Reaktor instruments, such as LazerBass and Carbon 2 and the Supercharger compressor effect. 

 

 

These free tools provide endless sonic possibilities, from deep basses and lush pads to complex soundscapes and dynamic effects.

 

Komplete Start is perfect for those looking to explore various sounds without spending a single dime and want access to high-quality virtual instruments and effects. 

 

NOTE: The inclusion of Native Instruments’ renowned Kontakt Player ensures you’re only working with professional quality sounds, which is key as a producer.

 

 

Famous producers like Junkie XL use Native Instruments products all day, so there is no limits to what you can pull off.

 

This plugin bundle not only provides a great introduction to the world of Native Instruments but also offers a sick collection of tools for any music production setup.

 

I’m sure you’ve heard of this epic bundle, but if you haven’t, it will blow your mind.

 

Key Features of Native Instruments Komplete Start:

 

 

• Includes Kontakt Player
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Various NI Reaktor instruments
• Supercharger compressor effect
• Diverse range of great sounds
• Completely free 
• User-friendly interface
• One of the best free plugin bundles available

 

#4. Ample Bass P Lite II

 

 

Ample Bass P Lite II by Ample Sound aims to bring the legendary sound of the Fender Precision Bass to your home studio. 

 

This free VST plugin features Direct from Disk (DFD) technology and an Auto Buzz system to create a super realistic and vivid bass sound. 

 

Ample Bass P Lite II by Ample Sound includes a Tab Player that can load and play various guitar and bass tablature file formats.

 

This makes it super easy to add authentic basslines to your beats.

 

Plus, the impressive fingering noise system helps bring even more realism to the picture 一 each note sounds more lifelike than you could imagine.

 

 

Ample Bass P Lite II is perfect for music producers looking to add realistic bass.

 

Whether you’re working on rock, pop, or any genre that requires a solid bass foundation, this free plugin delivers a professional quality sound that is hard to beat.

 

With features like Poly Legato and smooth sliding, Ample Bass P Lite II doesn’t slack on versatility.

 

NOTE: Its detailed, authentic, great sound ensures that it can easily replace a real bassist in any track.

 

This makes Ample Bass P Lite II by Ample Sound one of the best free VST instruments (if not the best free virtual instrument) available at the time of this writing.

 

Key Features of Ample Bass P Lite II by Ample Sound:

 

 

• Direct from Disk (DFD) technology
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Auto Buzz system
• Tab Player for guitar/bass tablature
• Realistic bass sound
• Poly Legato and smooth sliding
• One of the best free VST instruments available

 

#5. OTT by Xfer Records

 

 

OTT by Xfer Records is an insanely popular multiband compressor that has become a must-have in EDM and dubstep production.

 

Unlike most other free VSTs, OTT is known for its aggressive dynamics processing, providing both:

 

• Upward compression
• Downward compression

 

It’s out of this world when it comes to enhancing punch and clarity.

 

 

This free VST plugin is super effective on synths, drum sounds, and bass 一 adding a powerful, professional quality to your mixes.

 

Making sounds more impactful and present in the mix is what OTT is all about, which is why so many producers are raving about it.

 

Plus, its simple interface makes it easy to dial in the perfect amount of compression, whether you’re looking to subtly enhance a sound or completely transform it. 

 

 

Its effectiveness and ease of use make it one of the best free VSTs available, no doubt.

 

Zomboy and other dubstep producers rely on OTT for its dynamic processing capabilities, which solidifies its importance in modern music production.

 

If you want to learn everything there is to know about OTT by Xfer Records, we got you.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Multiband compression
• Upward and downward compression
• Simple interface, unlike some other audio plugins
• Enhances punch and clarity
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• One of the best free VST plugins available

 

#6. Polyverse Wider 2

 

 

Polyverse Wider 2 is a unique stereo widener plugin that can expand a fully mono signal to full stereo while maintaining mono compatibility. 

 

This free VST plugin is perfect for adding width and depth to any sound without causing any phase issues. 

 

The new version/current version of Wider introduces features like the ability to exclude low frequencies from the widening effect and a mono button to check compatibility.

 

 

Polyverse Wider 2 is a must-have for music producers looking to enhance the stereo image of their tracks (which you should).

 

Whether you’re working on synths, vocals, or any other element that needs more space in the mix, Wider 2 delivers a professional quality sound that is wide and crystal clear. 

 

Its simplicity, combined with its effectiveness make it one of the best free VSTs available in the game right now.

 

Infected Mushroom, known for their innovative sound design, collaborate with Polyverse and use Wider 2 in their music, so rest assured it’s official.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Stereo widening
• Maintains mono compatibility
• Exclude low frequencies option
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Completely free stereo information
• Mono button for compatibility check
• One of the best free VST plugins available

 

#7. Spitfire Audio LABS

 

 

Spitfire Audio LABS is a huge collection of high-quality sampled instruments that is constantly expanding. 

 

This free VST plugin includes a wide range of sounds 一 from soft piano to free synth strings and bass guitar. 

 

LABS is known for its user-friendly interface and professional quality sound, making it a valuable tool for any music producer.

 

If you’re looking realistic and expressive virtual instruments, you’ve got it.

 

 

All of their sounds are expertly recorded and offer a great starting point for creating professional-sounding tracks.

 

Spitfire Audio LABS is one of the best free VST instruments available, thanks to its quality, quantity, and versatility. 

 

NOTE: Hans Zimmer, who has collaborated with Spitfire Audio, endorses their high-quality sounds… which should tell you everything you need to know.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• High-quality sampled instruments; sounds like real instruments
• Constantly expanding library that includes some of the best free virtual instruments around
• User-friendly interface
• Professional quality sound; better than most free VST plugins
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• One of the best free VST instruments available

 

#8. TDR Nova

 

 

TDR Nova by Tokyo Dawn Labs is a dynamic EQ that combines a parametric EQ with a dynamic processor. 

 

This free VST plugin can help you with everything from basic equalization to complex dynamic processing, and everything in between.

 

It features four dynamic EQ bands, high-pass and low-pass filters, and a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use. 

 

 

Each band can be configured as a dynamic EQ, capable of performing: 

 

• Wideband compression
• Multi-band compression
• Frequency-selective compression

 

TDR Nova is ideal for music producers who need a powerful and flexible EQ for their mixing and mastering needs. 

 

It’s one of those ‘must-have’ free VSTs because of its flexibility alone.

 

When a conversation about free dynamic EQs come up, I can guarantee TDR Nova is part of the conversation, and for good reason.

 

 

Its intuitive equal loudness functions help in making optimal settings without being distracted by loudness differences.

 

Meaning, you’ll get a balanced and professional mix every single time (unlike with some other free VST plugins).

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Parametric EQ and dynamic processor
• Four dynamic EQ bands
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• High-pass and low-pass filters
• User-friendly interface, unlike some free plugins/simple plugins
• One of the best free VSTs available

 

#9. Valhalla Supermassive

 

 

Valhalla Supermassive is a free VST plugin designed for creating massive delays and reverbs, just the way we like.

 

It features 18 unique reverb/delay modes, each offering a different character and sound;  perfect for creating lush, expansive soundscapes and adding depth to your mixes.

 

Plus, its intuitive interface makes it super easy to dial in the perfect reverb or delay for any track.

 

This free plugin offers a wide range of attack and decay settings 一 so you can control your reverb and delay tails like a boss. 

 

 

Valhalla Supermassive is loved by music producers who like to think outside the box because it can easily transform simple sounds into something mind-blowing. 

 

Whether you want to add some ambiance or create otherworldly effects, Supermassive delivers a professional quality sound that can enhance your track.

 

Its high echo density and unique reverb/delay modes make it a standout choice for creating textural layers.

 

Deadmau5, who frequently uses Valhalla plugins, shows the potential power, professional quality sound, and creative potential of Supermassive.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• 18 unique reverb/delay modes
• Diverse range of attack and decay settings
• High echo density
• Intuitive interface that showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Completely free
• Perfect for creating expansive soundscapes
• One of the best free VSTs available

 

#10. Acon Digital Multiply

 

 

Acon Digital Multiply is a versatile and powerful free chorus effect plugin that excels in providing a wide range of modulation options. 

 

It’s known for its unique chorus effect, which can be used to create anything from subtle modulation to extreme, otherworldly sounds. 

 

Multiply features six different chorus voices that each have adjustable modulation rate and depth for precise control over the effect. 

 

 

As well as a super unique flanger effect, which can add a distinctive character to your sounds (which I personally love).

 

Plus, the ability to control the phase and stereo spread of each voice makes it a highly flexible tool for enhancing your mixes.

 

Acon Digital Multiply also comes with a built-in equalizer with low, mid, and high bands 一 allowing you to shape the tonal character of the chorus effect. 

 

Meaning, you can tweak the modulation effect to fit perfectly.

 

 

Its ability to add stereo width and depth without causing phase issues is truly out of this world.

 

Another key feature of Acon Digital Multiply is its flexibility in modulation routing…

 

You can apply modulation to different parameters such as: 

 

• Pitch
• Amplitude
• Pan

 

This way, you can create complex and evolving soundscapes that people go crazy for.

 

It also supports host tempo synchronization to ensure that your modulation effects are always in time with your project.

 

Overall, one of the best free VSTs available for music production; regardless of style or genre, you can do your own thing to perfection, which most free VSTs can offer.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Six adjustable chorus voices
• Unique flanger effect other free VSTs don’t offer
• Built-in equalizer with low, mid, and high bands
• Host tempo synchronization
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Flexible modulation routing (ring modulation included)
• One of the best free VSTs available
• Certainly worth downloading

 

#11. Saturation Knob by Softube

 

 

Saturation Knob by Softube is a highly regarded free VST plugin known for its simplicity and effectiveness when it comes to adding warmth and character.

 

This versatile saturation plugin offers three distinct saturation modes: 

 

• Keep High
• Neutral
• Keep Low

 

 

The Keep High mode focuses the saturation on the midrange and high frequencies 一 making it ideal for adding brightness and presence to vocals or lead instruments. 

 

The Keep Low mode targets the low-end to help enhance your bass elements, making them punchier and more defined. 

 

The Neutral mode applies even saturation across the entire frequency spectrum, providing a balanced and warm analog distortion that works well on various sources.

 

It’s user-friendly interface, which features a single knob to control the amount of saturation applied, couldn’t be more straightforward.

 

 

So, it’s great for beginners who want to be making music like the pros.

 

Despite its simple design, Saturation Knob delivers professional quality sound, which is why producers love it.

 

Its ability to enhance harmonics and add subtle distortion can bring life to your otherwise flat-sounding or basic tracks, so don’t miss out.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Three modes of saturation: Keep High, Neutral, Keep Low
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Enhances drum kits, bass, vocals, and more
• Simple and intuitive interface
• Adds analog warmth and distortion
• One of the best free VSTs available

 

#12. Voxengo Span

 

 

Voxengo Span is a highly acclaimed free VST (virtual studio technology) plugin that serves as a real-time FFT audio spectrum analyzer. 

 

It’s essential for both mixing and mastering tasks.

 

This free VST plugin offers a highly customizable interface, so you can set up your spectrum analyzer preferences to fit your specific needs. 

 

And yes, Span supports multi-channel analysis so you can compare and contrast different parts of your mix simultaneously. 

 

It also features real-time maximum and all-time maximum spectrum displays 一 providing detailed visual feedback on the audio spectrum.

 

One of the standout features is its extensive metering and analysis capabilities. 

 

 

It includes output level metering with adjustable ballistics and integration time; making it easy to monitor and adjust levels accurately. 

 

To make sure your mixes meet industry standards, Span also offers: 

 

• EBU R128
• K-system metering
• True peak clipping detection

 

Most other free plugins really don’t get this intricate, so it’s a great choice.

 

Plus, the customizable color spectrum allows for a personalized visual experience, which I find super important.

 

Span’s correlation metering will help you identify phase issues right away and ensure your tracks maintain stereo information/integrity.

 

So, when it comes to free VST plugins, it’s certainly worth downloading.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Real-time FFT audio spectrum analyzer
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Customizable system for personal preference setup
• Supports multi-channel analysis
• Comprehensive metering and clipping detection 
• One of the best free audio plugins available

 

#13. Zebralette by u-he

 

 

Zebralette, the introduction to Zebra 2, is a powerful and versatile spectral synthesizer that shows why u-he is so well known.

 

It features features one powerful oscillator with a 16-slot waveset and waveform editing capabilities. 

 

 

Zebralette, unlike other free VSTs, includes: 

 

• 24 spectral effects
• Polyphonic modes
• Stereo VCA
• Extensive modulation options

 

This makes it super valuable for creating dynamic and versatile sounds 一 perfect for innovative music producers looking to explore the world of spectral synthesis. 

 

 

Plus, its rich and dynamic sound capabilities make it perfect for all genres and sound design applications. 

 

It’s user-friendly interface and powerful features also ensure that you can achieve professional quality sound with ease. 

 

When it comes to free VSTs, Zebralette is a pretty solid choice.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Free version of Zebra 2 (limited)
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Powerful oscillator with 16-slot waveset
• 24 spectral effects
• Polyphonic modes
• Extensive modulation options
• One of the best free VSTs available

 

#14. Momentum by Big Fish Audio

 

 

Momentum by Big Fish Audio is a powerful and versatile free VST plugin designed to revolutionize the way you work with audio loops and samples. 

 

Momentum is unlike most other free VSTs because it’s all about:

 

• Slicing
• Stretching
• Key changes

 

So you can manipulate and rearrange your loops creatively with no problems. 

 

Momentum also includes 18 slice-specific effects…

 

 

This includes pitch-shifting, time-stretching, and reverse 一 which can be applied individually to each slice for unparalleled creative control. 

 

It also features smart BPM and key stretching capabilities so your loops always stay in time and in tune with your project. 

 

 

With access to Big Fish Audio’s extensive loop libraries (which other free plugins don’t have), Momentum gives you high-quality sounds that you’ll love.

 

Its drag-and-drop functionality allows you to quickly load and manipulate loops, so creating complex arrangements is super simple and efficient.

 

 

Momentum also supports multi-track loop playback 一 you can layer multiple loops and create rich, textured soundscapes. 

 

Plus, there are built-in effects and processing tools, such as EQ, compression, and reverb, so you can fine-tune your loops directly within the plugin. 

 

Overall, this is one of the most impressive free VSTs around.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Slicing, stretching, and key changes
• 18 slice-specific creative effects
• Showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Smart BPM and key stretching features
• Access to extensive loop libraries
• One of the best free VST instruments available

 

#15. Spitfire Symphony Orchestra Discover

 

 

Spitfire Symphony Orchestra Discover is a completely free VST plugin that provides an impressive collection of 34 orchestral instruments (string, brass, etc.).

 

Each instrument is meticulously sampled to deliver super realistic sounds that can enhance your tracks like no other.

 

One of the standout features of Spitfire Symphony Orchestra Discover is its ability to provide professional quality sound.

 

All without the complexity and high resource demands that are typically associated with orchestral libraries. 

 

 

This free plugin includes multiple articulations for each instrument, such as: 

 

• Legato
• Staccato
• Pizzicato

 

So, you’ll get a wide range of expressive capabilities which most audio plugins don’t include.

 

The lightweight footprint of Discover ensures that it runs smoothly even on less powerful systems 一 making high-quality orchestral sounds accessible to everyone. 

 

 

NOTE: It integrates seamlessly with all major digital audio workstations, allowing for easy MIDI programming and automation, which is always great.

 

Overall, while it might be second to last on our list, it’s pretty solid.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Full-size orchestral plugin with 34 instruments (great sound quality)
• The best free emulation around/showcases the power of free VST plugins
• Covers strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion that sound like real instruments
• User-friendly interface, like all the best plugins
• High-quality samples
• Integrates seamlessly with all major digital audio workstations
• One of the best free VST instruments available
• Better than most other instruments

 

#16. CamelCrusher by Camel Audio

 

 

CamelCrusher by Camel Audio is a legendary free VST plugin known for its epic distortion and compression capabilities. 

 

It features four modules, each with simple controls: 

 

• Distortion
• Filter
• Compressor
• Master

 

CamelCrusher’s two distortion algorithms (Tube and Mech) offer a range from smooth analog-like textures to gritty, dirty tones. 

 

 

This free VST plugin also includes an analog-style low-pass filter and a one-knob compressor with a Phat Mode for a fatter sound.

 

Which, in turn, makes it even more versatile and flexible than other free plugins.

 

Its simple interface makes it easy for all music producers to dial in the perfect amount of distortion and compression 一 enhancing the overall sound.

 

Whether you’re looking to subtly enhance a sound or completely transform it, CamelCrusher delivers professional quality sound with ease and precision.

 

Its unique combination of features makes it one of the best free VSTs available for adding depth, warmth, and character to your tracks.

 

Key Features of this Free VST Plugin:

 

 

• Four modules: Distortion, Filter type, Compressor, Master
• Two distortion algorithms: Tube and Mech
• Simple controls for making music easily 
• Adds warmth and character to get your tracks sounding great
• Showcases the power of free plugins
• One of the best VST plugins available

 

Free VST Plugins: Final Thoughts

 

Free VSTs are really powerful tools that can help elevate your music production process without spending a dime. 

 

With any of the free VSTs we broke down today, you can create professional-quality sounds, experiment with new textures, and enhance your mixes. 

 

Plus, you’ll be able to design intricate soundscapes and produce tracks that stand out in a crowded field (which is super important).

 

Now that you have access to the top 16 free VSTs in the game, go download them and see which ones best fit your personal style. 

 

All of them can help you achieve professional-level production, but you’ve got to see which ones resonate with your unique workflow and creative vision.

 

So, go use these free VSTs to create epic beats that blow your competition out of the water.

 

Until next time…